Magashule was granted bail of R200,000. He is facing 20 counts including fraud, corruption, money-laundering and contravening the Prevention of Organised Crime Act (POCA). He will appear with his co-accused including former Mangaung Metro Municipality's Mayor Olly Mlamleli, businessman Edwin Sodi and others on 19 February 2021.

Cope spokesperson, Dennis Bloem, says Cele will have to explain why Magashule was given preferential treatment. Bloem also raised concern about the manner in which Magashule's court process unfolded since the time he handed himself over to the Hawks.

His concerns come after Magistrate Amos Moos also questioned why Magashule was not brought in shackled, as is typical for court proceedings.

But, in response to the magistrate's question, state prosecutor Advocate Johan de Nysschen said Magashule was compliant and there was an agreement between them and Magashule's legal team.

Bloem says Magashule did not spend even one night in police custody, like his co-accused.

"Cope condemns this preferential treatment. All are equal before the law," he adds.

OFM News